Scott Eyman returns to Lyndhurst for film history talk

Scott Eyman is visiting his hometown of Lyndhurst this week to discuss the history of American cinema. The New York Times bestselling author will speak on Friday at the Western Reserve Historical Society. His appearance is part of an event titled “Behind the Camera: The Golden Age of Hollywood.” The Greater Cleveland Film Commission organized the program to explore Northeast Ohio's role in film history.

Eyman lives in West Palm Beach, Florida, but he maintains strong ties to Cleveland. He watches Guardians games on television almost daily. He avoids watching Browns games, a preference he noted with humor. The event covers the region's film heritage from the silent era through recent productions. It includes discussions of “A Christmas Story” and upcoming films such as “The Land.”

The author credits his childhood in Cleveland for giving him a comprehensive education in American movies. He noted that the city offered diverse viewing options during the 20th century. John Ewing started the Cinematheque in the area. Jon Forman founded the Cleveland Film Festival. Sheldon Wigod operated New Mayfield on Murray Hill, which served as a model repertory cinema. The Case Western Reserve Film Society held Cleveland premieres nearly every week.

Local television stations also played a major role in film distribution. WUAB broadcast the Warner Brothers package. WJW aired an extensive Paramount package. That lineup included works by W.C. Fields, the Marx Brothers, and Charles Laughton. Despite these strong viewing options, film production in Northeast Ohio was often limited. Many productions were industrial films. Stars such as Alan Alda and Merv Griffin began their careers in what are now called infomercials.

Eyman pointed out that major studios rarely filmed in the Midwest. This lack of production led to unusual one-off projects. One example is “The Kid From Cleveland.” Republic Pictures made that film after the 1948 World Series. On Friday, Eyman will discuss that movie and other films with local connections. The list includes “The Fortune Cookie” and “The Avengers.” He will also talk about stars who grew up in the area, including Paul Newman, Margaret Hamilton, and Dorothy Dandridge.

The author will share his knowledge in a conversation with Betsy Kling of WKYC. Eyman has interviewed several of these stars over the years. He attributes their openness to his preparedness during those conversations. He recalled asking Bob Hope why he stopped making movies. Hope replied that the films stopped making money. Eyman described that response as an absolutely honest answer.

The talk will cover the complex relationship between Hollywood and the Midwest. It will also address the specific contributions of local institutions. Eyman's perspective is shaped by his time growing up in the city. He views the local film scene as a vital part of his personal history. The event marks his return to the area for this specific academic discussion.